American Cocker Spaniel
Description:
The American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel are separate dog breeds. The American Cocker is smaller than its English relative. It is a beautiful spaniel with long hanging ears and has a thick silky, flat to wavy coat and wide ‘trousered’ legs. The Cocker’s coat colours run the entire gamut from solid colours – black, gold, red, white – to multi-color. Male dogs are approximately 16 inches and female dogs are 15 inches at shoulder height. These Spaniels are approximately 20 to 30 pounds in weight. The cocker’s tail is usually docked and hunting breed lines usually have a shorter coat.
American Cocker Spaniels are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Sporting Dog Group.
American Cocker Spaniel Pictures:
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History:
The American Cocker, like all spaniels, is descended from Spanish hunting dogs. It was developed from the English Cocker which had been brought to the United States. The name ‘cocker’ comes from the woodcock which the Spaniels used to flush. While some Cocker Spaniels are used for hunting and retrieving, the majority of dogs have become companions and show dogs. American Cockers were ranked 15th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations
Temperament:
The American Cocker is a friendly, placid and loving dog that gets along very well with children and always tries to obey its master. This Spaniel makes an excellent gundog as well as an outstanding family pet. Spaniel puppies and adolescents respond enthusiastically to firm and kind obedience training at an early age. Cockers should be socialised early so they overcome a tendency for timidity. Submissive urination when frightened or excited and excessive barking can be training problems. This Spaniel breed is suitable for first time dog owners.
Exercise:
The cocker needs and appreciates lots of exercise because it is a hunting dog breed. This spaniel is suited for apartment living as long as it gets walked every day. You have to watch the cocker’s food intake carefully as the dog makes efficient use of what it eats and has a tendency to be overweight. Cocker Spaniels can even adapt to be left home alone during the as long as they get sufficient morning and evening exercise and attention.
Grooming:
You must brush and comb this Cocker Spaniel daily and keep its ears from getting matted with food from its bowl. This Spaniel will need regular trimming and shampooing. Its eyes will also need cleaning on a weekly basis.
Health Issues:
American Cockers live from 12 to 15 years and have health problems with cataracts, glaucoma, allergies, ear infections and luxating patella. Information on some of these genetic diseases can be found in our article Hereditary Diseases in Dogs.
Article type: xdogbreed
